Recalling the Hanging of Mohammad Afzal Guru: Ethical Debates Unresolved

Harsh Mander's book "Terror Crimes in India and the Judicial Conscience" is reviewed in five parts. The third part discusses the 2013 hanging of Mohammad Afzal Guru, convicted for his role in the 2001 Indian Parliament attack. Guru's hanging sparked debates about justice, law, democracy, and the death penalty. Critics argue that his trial was unfair, and his confession was coerced. The delay in disposing of his mercy petition and the secrecy surrounding his execution also raised concerns. Some believe his execution was politically motivated, while others see it as a sign of a strong state.